The plan, which involves an elevated rail structure, will improve commuter congestion and safety, but it comes at the expense of Welshpool Station, which was found to have low patronage.
The elevated solution will minimise the visual impact of the new train line while reducing rail noise and freeing up land for alternative public use, and it was chosen based on community feedback. It requires new elevated stations to be built at Cannington, Queens Park, Oats Street and Carlisle.
The project will receive federal funding as part of the infrastructure investment pipeline initiative to support economic recovery. Paul Fletcher, Federal Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, said:
“By alleviating congestion across this transport corridor, we’re helping the people of Perth get home to their families sooner and safer, we’re driving the economy and we’re supporting local jobs.”
Western Australia Minister for Transport and Planning, Rita Saffioti, estimated that the boom gates due for removal are closed for a total of three hours each day. Printing services often support campaigns to solicit community feedback and notify the public of altered traffic conditions.
The preferred plans will see high-voltage power lines relocated, in part underground, to ensure safety throughout the project and beyond. A Community Reference Group is being established to guide the use of the new public space.